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Hi guys, this may be a dumb question but I thought it would be worthwhile asking anyway... :)
We are currently planning a bathroom reno and I've been looking at bathroom fixtures and fittings and there are a couple of bath mixers I can get from Australia or the US that I really like - would I have any problems getting a foreign bath mixer installed in New Zealand?
I know we get a lot of the same stuff both here and in Australia but I wasn't sure if there is a universal standard for plumbing (or if, god forbid, it's like electrical fittings where every country seems to be a bit different).
Any help would be appreciated. Thanks!
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Hi Luci,
The general answer is Yes you can. But here are things you need to consider:
- America mostly uses the Unified Inch Screw Thread, the difference in how the thread is measured results in a different "thread or diameter size" ask the manufacturer for an adaption to the metric system we use here in NZ (BSP threads or ISO metric screw threads), most taps in Australia should work (sometimes BSF or Imperial system) but to be safe you also want to ask them for couplers depending on where they import from.
- Find out what the minimum and maximum rated pressure is and show them to your plumber to ensure the pressure ratings comply with those in NZ or your area (home). Its probably also worth asking about the temperature ratings.
- If no adaption to the correct size in NZ is available get a technical drawing of the tap/mixer (every tap supplier has them) and talk to your plumber whether can make an adapter to suit our pipe size. Note that with this option your tap warranty could be affected, also to note is whether the plumber is confident enough to warranty the connection or coupler he makes.
Before you buy any tapware overseas you need to consider that if anything goes wrong with the tap and it causes damage to your property, it will be very difficult to take legal action. Buying in NZ ensures you can get spare parts and you can claim a warranty without a headache. If you post a picture of what you are wanting to buy im sure our members can help find the equivalent here in NZ. Hope this helps. :)